Going to the Winter Classic? Here's What to Know

Receive the latest worth-the-trip updates in your inbox

Hockey fans, rejoice! The 2015 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic is coming to the District, and Washington Capitals fans are already gearing up for the big day.

But before you venture out into the New Year to see the Caps battle the Chicago Blackhawks, we've got everything you need to know.

Where & When:

Nationals Park (1500 S. Capital St. SE) is hosting the big game, which kicks off at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1.

Getting to the Game:

By Metro: Metro is the quickest and easiest way to get to Nats Park. Take the Green Line to the Navy Yard station, located half a block from the stadium, or take the Orange, Blue or Silver Line to the Capitol South station, which is about a 15-minute walk to the park. Visit Metro's website to get your personalized route.

By Circulator: Hop on the Circulator from Union Station or H Street NE and take it to the Navy Yard. See all stops here.

By Car: Several streets will be closed around Nationals Park on game day, so driving might not be the best way to get to the event. If you do choose to drive, the following streets will be closed or have limited access during the game:

N Street SE from 1st Street SE to Van Street will close at 8:30 a.m.

Half Street SE between M and N streets will close at 8:30 a.m.

Van Street SE between M and N street will be accessible to taxis and stadium traffic only, and will be one-way during the game.

By Charter: Parking for charter buses, limousines and large vehicles is located in Parking Lot W, between M and L streets SE and 7th Street SE. Buses will be permitted to drop off guests on the west curb of 1st Street SE between M and N streets SE.

By Taxi: A taxi stand is located on M Street SE between South Capitol and Half streets SE.

Food items except those contained in single serving bags within a soft-sided container or cooler not exceeding 16"x16"x8"

Hard coolers or ice chests

Backpacks and bags exceeding 16"x16"x8"

Umbrellas

Weapons, fireworks and other illegal substances

Camera lenses in excess of eight inches, tripods and monopods

Animals except service animals

Beach balls and other inflatable items

Laser pens and pointers

Alcohol not purchased at Nationals Park

Noisemakers not provided by the NHL

Skateboards

Strollers

Any other item deemed dangerous or inappropriate or otherwise violating the guest conduct policy

Finding Your Seat:
You can find a PDF seating map for the event on the NHL's website.

During the Game:

Re-Entry: Fans may not exit and re-enter the park using the same ticket. In the event of an emergency, guests should contact a gate supervisor, who may permit a guest to re-enter the park at the same gate.

Guest Services: Nationals Park has three Guest Services locations. They can be found behind Sections 103, 131 and 320. Guest services remain open until 30 minutes after the game to assist guests with lost and found items, lost or missing guests, transportation information, emergencies, and accommodations for guests with disabilities.

Fan Support Line: Fans experiencing problems with unruly behavior or a security issue are encouraged to text "NHL" along with a brief description of the issue and their location to 69050 to contact Nationals Park officials during the game.